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Fateless #1
Fateless
The Hourglass of Time waits for no one.Not even the Deathless Kings can turn back the sands once they have fallen.Perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo, Laini Taylor and Sarah J. Maas, this new fantasy trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Julie Kagawa will sweep readers into a bold and exciting new world, where a twisted game of destiny has far-reaching consequences.
‘Fateless is a breathless page turner packed with action and adventure and world ending stakes that kept me hooked beginning to end’
ALWYN HAMILTON, New York Times bestselling author of the Rebel of the Sands series
'A page-turning thrill ride with an unforgettable heroine, Fateless deftly weaves everything I love about the fantasy genre into the tapestry of its pages. This gripping read will have you begging for the sequel!'
KAMILAH COLE, bestselling author of So Let Them Burn
⏳⏳⏳
Steal your Fate. Unravel your destiny.
The Hourglass of Time waits for no one. Not even the Deathless Kings can turn back the sands once they have fallen.
Seventeen-year-old Sparrow has no family other than the Thieves Guild. They found her, an orphan on the streets of Kovass, and gave her a home, training, and a purpose. Ever since, Sparrow’s sole focus has been proving herself to the Guild.
But the Guild and the mysterious Circle that controls them are more than simple criminals. They work to bring back the reign of the Deathless Kings, the godlike sorcerers who once ruled over the world. In Sparrow they believe they have found the key to turning back the sands of time.
Betrayed by those closest to her, Sparrow must turn to Raithe – the enigmatic yet alluring assassin sent to eliminate her – to escape the Guild’s shadowy plots. What ensues is a death-defying adventure that takes Sparrow far from home, across the Dust Sea, and into the trackless desert where she will discover not only her fate but the world’s itself rests in her hands.
⏳⏳⏳
Readers LOVE Julie
‘Wow, what a ride!’
‘Gripping and unforgettable’
‘A captivating read full of intriguing characters and plot twists’
‘An amazing world to get lost in. Amazing writing and fabulous characters. Can't wait to get stuck into the next book’
‘I am totally hooked’
‘God, I pretty much devoured this book’
‘This book was outstanding… I was totally enthralled’
‘I never wanted to leave the beautiful world Julie Kagawa painted’
‘Fateless is a breathless page turner packed with action and adventure and world ending stakes that kept me hooked beginning to end’
ALWYN HAMILTON, New York Times bestselling author of the Rebel of the Sands series
'A page-turning thrill ride with an unforgettable heroine, Fateless deftly weaves everything I love about the fantasy genre into the tapestry of its pages. This gripping read will have you begging for the sequel!'
KAMILAH COLE, bestselling author of So Let Them Burn
⏳⏳⏳
Steal your Fate. Unravel your destiny.
The Hourglass of Time waits for no one. Not even the Deathless Kings can turn back the sands once they have fallen.
Seventeen-year-old Sparrow has no family other than the Thieves Guild. They found her, an orphan on the streets of Kovass, and gave her a home, training, and a purpose. Ever since, Sparrow’s sole focus has been proving herself to the Guild.
But the Guild and the mysterious Circle that controls them are more than simple criminals. They work to bring back the reign of the Deathless Kings, the godlike sorcerers who once ruled over the world. In Sparrow they believe they have found the key to turning back the sands of time.
Betrayed by those closest to her, Sparrow must turn to Raithe – the enigmatic yet alluring assassin sent to eliminate her – to escape the Guild’s shadowy plots. What ensues is a death-defying adventure that takes Sparrow far from home, across the Dust Sea, and into the trackless desert where she will discover not only her fate but the world’s itself rests in her hands.
⏳⏳⏳
Readers LOVE Julie
‘Wow, what a ride!’
‘Gripping and unforgettable’
‘A captivating read full of intriguing characters and plot twists’
‘An amazing world to get lost in. Amazing writing and fabulous characters. Can't wait to get stuck into the next book’
‘I am totally hooked’
‘God, I pretty much devoured this book’
‘This book was outstanding… I was totally enthralled’
‘I never wanted to leave the beautiful world Julie Kagawa painted’
400 pages, ebook
First published July 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 507 reviews
July 31, 2025
« Or maybe Fate just likes me better. »
I’ll be honest it took me the longest time to get into this story. I kept snapping out of it… I became invested in the plot around page 130 or so. I was very underwhelmed but I never thought to DNF.
I think the plot and the world building on their own make this book worth a read. I will admit the plot moves at a snail pace but I liked what it entailed. The hidden underworld grabbed my interest and I’m considering reading the rest of this series just for that.
Sadly, the romance & characters were weighing this book down. The characters had one layer - and their traits were undistinguished. The only thing that distinguishes the FMC from every other character is the fact that she’s a 17yo who succeeds in everything she does the first time. She’s good at everything. (Which was rather irritating to be quite honest). At some point, I wondered if the characters were robots. I went back to check on the synopsis… I wouldn’t of been surprised if that’d been a reveal at the end 😂 my mind was wandering through this read.
I’ll be honest it took me the longest time to get into this story. I kept snapping out of it… I became invested in the plot around page 130 or so. I was very underwhelmed but I never thought to DNF.
I think the plot and the world building on their own make this book worth a read. I will admit the plot moves at a snail pace but I liked what it entailed. The hidden underworld grabbed my interest and I’m considering reading the rest of this series just for that.
Sadly, the romance & characters were weighing this book down. The characters had one layer - and their traits were undistinguished. The only thing that distinguishes the FMC from every other character is the fact that she’s a 17yo who succeeds in everything she does the first time. She’s good at everything. (Which was rather irritating to be quite honest). At some point, I wondered if the characters were robots. I went back to check on the synopsis… I wouldn’t of been surprised if that’d been a reveal at the end 😂 my mind was wandering through this read.
June 7, 2025
wow. I’ve said it before and i’ll say it again; Julie Kagawa single handedly wrote the fantasy book I have always wanted.
I started reading Fateless and was instantly captivated. The atmosphere and setting Julie Kagawa created was something I have never read before, and something I have always been intrigued by. The baron landscape our main character lives in truly felt like it was its own character and added so many extra layers to not only the setting of the book but the plot as well.
while reading the book, I kept finding similarities to Fateless and other media such as the Tomb Raider games and movies such as The Mummy and the Indiana Jones franchise. All three of these are piece of entertainment I have loved my whole life and grown up with, so reading Fateless, while it was entirely its own thing, felt very reminiscent and nostalgic for me.
overall, reading Fateless was such a fun enjoyable experience and I think if you love books about fate, found family, heists, and politics you will love this book. (there is also a small subplot of romance for all my romance lovers, and yes it is such a good slow burn)
I started reading Fateless and was instantly captivated. The atmosphere and setting Julie Kagawa created was something I have never read before, and something I have always been intrigued by. The baron landscape our main character lives in truly felt like it was its own character and added so many extra layers to not only the setting of the book but the plot as well.
while reading the book, I kept finding similarities to Fateless and other media such as the Tomb Raider games and movies such as The Mummy and the Indiana Jones franchise. All three of these are piece of entertainment I have loved my whole life and grown up with, so reading Fateless, while it was entirely its own thing, felt very reminiscent and nostalgic for me.
overall, reading Fateless was such a fun enjoyable experience and I think if you love books about fate, found family, heists, and politics you will love this book. (there is also a small subplot of romance for all my romance lovers, and yes it is such a good slow burn)
November 9, 2024
HOW DID I NOT KNOW THERE WAS A NEW JULIE BOOK COMING OUT?!?!
unreleased
November 30, 2021more julie kagawa!!!!
May 25, 2026
oh wait… the queen still got it 🙌
I had forgotten how GOOD Julie Kagawa is. Which is crazy because The Iron Fey was one of my first fantasy obsessions, so I should’ve known this woman was going to drag me right back in.
This book has all you would expect from a YA epic fantasy with a little romance: dangerous quests, ancient powers waking up, giant flying rock beetles (I felt like Thumbelina for a moment there), morally questionable people. The MFC is an orphan and thief, we still need a little more back story, everyone acting like this poor thief girl is the chosen one but she's just a regular gal. Pretty good stuff.
Also there’s a gray-skinned white-haired man that is human adjacent lol and somehow Julie made me go:
you know what… I see the vision 👌
The world was so fun to explore that I barely noticed I read the whole thing in a day. Now excuse me while I go read the ARC that started this whole mess.
Pre-read 2
This all started because Epic Reads gifted me the ARC of Deathless and I started reading it like "wait, somethings missing" Girl, why did I not know is was the 2nd book!?!? I could feel how I burned several brain cells right there.
Pre-read 1
“… for fans of Alexandra Bracken and Sabaa Tahir” is WILD because wdym????
It should say for fans of Julie Kagawa, and if you don’t know who the queen is then you have homework to do.
I had forgotten how GOOD Julie Kagawa is. Which is crazy because The Iron Fey was one of my first fantasy obsessions, so I should’ve known this woman was going to drag me right back in.
This book has all you would expect from a YA epic fantasy with a little romance: dangerous quests, ancient powers waking up, giant flying rock beetles (I felt like Thumbelina for a moment there), morally questionable people. The MFC is an orphan and thief, we still need a little more back story, everyone acting like this poor thief girl is the chosen one but she's just a regular gal. Pretty good stuff.
Also there’s a gray-skinned white-haired man that is human adjacent lol and somehow Julie made me go:
you know what… I see the vision 👌
The world was so fun to explore that I barely noticed I read the whole thing in a day. Now excuse me while I go read the ARC that started this whole mess.
Pre-read 2
This all started because Epic Reads gifted me the ARC of Deathless and I started reading it like "wait, somethings missing" Girl, why did I not know is was the 2nd book!?!? I could feel how I burned several brain cells right there.
Pre-read 1
“… for fans of Alexandra Bracken and Sabaa Tahir” is WILD because wdym????
It should say for fans of Julie Kagawa, and if you don’t know who the queen is then you have homework to do.
July 16, 2025
I’ve been aware of Ms. Kagawa since 2010, when her first book was published, and I’ve had quite a few of her books on my TBR list for a while now. And yet, I had never read one of her books until this one. The plot and setting are reminiscent of some other successful YA trilogies, so I was wondering how the author would spin a new tale…and she delivered. A lot of time and effort has gone into worldbuilding, and you can feel the blistering heat of the twin suns during Demon Hour in the first few pages. It only gets better from there.
Sparrow is a 17 year old orphan who has only ever known the thieves guild. Raised there since she was an infant, she understandably becomes very, very good at “procuring” items. The book opens with Sparrow attempting to steal a heavily-guarded item on a rare solo mission.
After that mission, she learns about a secret, ancient underground city wherein lies a priceless treasure, and is told that if she fails to retrieve it, her life and that of the Thieves Guild Master will be forfeit.
Mass chaos ensues, and Sparrow’s world turns upside down.
Because you can’t roam through a Deathless King’s palace and escape unscathed.
This is the start of a very good trilogy! I look forward to book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an eARC. I am writing this review voluntarily.
Sparrow is a 17 year old orphan who has only ever known the thieves guild. Raised there since she was an infant, she understandably becomes very, very good at “procuring” items. The book opens with Sparrow attempting to steal a heavily-guarded item on a rare solo mission.
After that mission, she learns about a secret, ancient underground city wherein lies a priceless treasure, and is told that if she fails to retrieve it, her life and that of the Thieves Guild Master will be forfeit.
Mass chaos ensues, and Sparrow’s world turns upside down.
Because you can’t roam through a Deathless King’s palace and escape unscathed.
This is the start of a very good trilogy! I look forward to book two.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for an eARC. I am writing this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2025
Julie Kagawa returns to the fantasy landscape with Fateless, the first installment in what promises to be an enthralling new trilogy that masterfully blends high-stakes adventure with intimate character development. Known for her acclaimed Iron Fey series and the Blood of Eden trilogy, Kagawa demonstrates her evolution as a storyteller by crafting a narrative that feels both familiar and refreshingly original in the crowded young adult fantasy market.
A World Built on Threads and Shadows
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where ancient Deathless Kings once ruled through dark magic, Fateless introduces us to a society built on the ruins of a forgotten empire. The world-building is impressively layered, revealing a civilization where the goddess Maederyss weaves the Tapestry of the World, binding every soul's fate into an intricate pattern of destiny and purpose.
Kagawa's attention to detail shines through her creation of Kovass, a desert city where thieves operate in the shadows while mysterious forces known as The Circle pull strings from the darkness. The author's descriptions of the Dust Sea and the underground City of the Deathless Kings create an atmosphere that feels both ancient and immediate, drawing readers into a world where magic and mystery lurk beneath everyday survival.
The mythology surrounding the ma'jhet (the former servants of the Deathless Kings) and their continued influence adds political intrigue that elevates the story beyond simple adventure fantasy. Kagawa demonstrates remarkable skill in revealing world-building details organically through character interactions and plot progression, never overwhelming readers with exposition dumps.
Sparrow: A Protagonist Worth Following
Sparrow, the seventeen-year-old thief protagonist, embodies the evolution of Kagawa's character writing. Unlike many YA fantasy heroines who discover their specialness early, Sparrow's journey toward understanding her identity as the Fateless unfolds with genuine uncertainty and self-doubt. Her initial reluctance to accept her role feels authentic rather than manufactured for dramatic tension.
The character development throughout the narrative is particularly compelling. Sparrow begins as someone whose "only thought was of her own survival" but gradually transforms into someone willing to "put herself in danger for others." This transformation doesn't happen overnight but occurs through carefully crafted moments of choice and consequence.
Kagawa excels at writing Sparrow's internal voice, capturing the cynical street-smart perspective of someone who has learned to trust no one. The protagonist's relationship with Vahn, her mentor-turned-betrayer, provides emotional depth that resonates throughout the story. The pain of discovering that the father figure who raised her was willing to sacrifice her for a greater cause adds layers of complexity to Sparrow's character arc.
Supporting Characters That Breathe Life Into the Story
The supporting cast demonstrates Kagawa's improved ensemble writing. Raithe, the iylvahn assassin, avoids the typical "mysterious love interest" trope by maintaining clear motivations beyond romance. His dedication to protecting the Fateless stems from genuine belief in prophecy rather than instant attraction, making their developing relationship feel earned rather than obligatory.
Halek the Fatechaser provides comic relief without becoming a caricature, while his unwavering faith in fate adds philosophical depth to the narrative. Kysa, the insect rider, brings practical wisdom and cultural diversity that enriches the world-building while serving as a strong female character who operates independently of romantic subplots.
The antagonists, particularly Vahn and the emerging threat of the Deathless King, represent more than simple evil. Vahn's betrayal carries emotional weight because his motivations stem from a genuine belief that he's protecting both Sparrow and the world from chaos. This moral complexity elevates the conflict beyond good versus evil into more nuanced territory.
Romance That Enhances Rather Than Overwhelms
Kagawa handles the romantic elements with notable restraint and maturity. The developing relationship between Sparrow and Raithe builds slowly through shared experiences and genuine emotional connection rather than instant attraction. Their first kiss occurs naturally within the narrative context, and their relationship develops alongside rather than at the expense of the main plot.
The romance benefits from both characters having clear individual goals and agency. Sparrow's feelings for Raithe don't override her survival instincts or independent decision-making, while Raithe's protective instincts stem from duty that evolves into genuine care. The romantic tension enhances character development without overwhelming the fantasy adventure elements.
Pacing and Plot Structure: A Masterclass in Tension
The novel's pacing deserves particular praise. Kagawa maintains momentum throughout the narrative without rushing character development or world-building. The opening sequence in the underground city immediately establishes stakes and atmosphere, while subsequent chapters balance action sequences with quieter character moments.
The revelation of Sparrow's true nature as the Fateless unfolds with perfect timing. Rather than revealing this information early and spending the book exploring its implications, Kagawa builds mystery around Sparrow's identity before delivering a climactic revelation that recontextualizes everything that came before.
The final confrontation manages to be both emotionally satisfying and narratively complete while clearly setting up future installments. The resolution addresses the immediate threat while acknowledging that larger conflicts remain unresolved, striking an ideal balance for series fiction.
Writing Style: Evolved and Confident
Kagawa's prose has matured significantly since her earlier works. The writing maintains accessibility without sacrificing sophistication, and her action sequences are particularly well-crafted. The author's descriptions of magic and combat are vivid without becoming overwrought, while dialogue feels natural and character-appropriate.
The narrative voice captures Sparrow's perspective effectively, balancing cynical street wisdom with moments of vulnerability and wonder. Kagawa's ability to write from the perspective of someone who has lived rough while maintaining reader sympathy demonstrates her skill as a character writer.
Themes That Resonate
Fateless explores themes of destiny versus free will with genuine sophistication. The concept of the Fateless—someone whose thread doesn't appear in the Tapestry of the World—provides an excellent metaphor for individual agency in the face of predetermined fate. Sparrow's journey toward accepting her role while maintaining her independence speaks to universal themes of growing up and accepting responsibility.
The book also examines the nature of family and loyalty through Sparrow's relationships with both Vahn and her new companions. The question of whether blood ties or chosen family matter more provides emotional depth that elevates the fantasy elements.
Themes of redemption and second chances permeate the narrative, particularly through Raithe's character arc and Sparrow's willingness to trust again after betrayal. These themes feel organic to the story rather than artificially imposed.
Minor Criticisms
While Fateless succeeds on most levels, a few elements could have been stronger. Some secondary characters, particularly among the Circle, could have used more individual development to distinguish them beyond their role as antagonists. Additionally, certain world-building elements around the iylvahn culture feel underdeveloped, though this may be intentional setup for future books.
The magic system, while atmospheric, could benefit from clearer rules and limitations. The distinction between different types of magic and their costs isn't always clear, which occasionally makes magical solutions feel convenient rather than earned.
Final Verdict
Fateless represents Julie Kagawa at her most confident and sophisticated. The novel successfully launches a new series while telling a complete and satisfying story on its own merits. With its compelling protagonist, rich world-building, and mature handling of romance and themes, this book should appeal to both longtime Kagawa fans and newcomers to her work.
The story succeeds in creating a fantasy world that feels both epic in scope and intimate in character focus. Sparrow's journey from cynical thief to reluctant hero provides excellent character development, while the supporting cast and world-building create a foundation for what promises to be an excellent series.
For readers seeking fantasy that balances adventure, romance, and character development while exploring meaningful themes, Fateless delivers on all fronts. Kagawa has created something special here—a series opener that leaves readers eager for more while fully satisfying as a standalone narrative.
A World Built on Threads and Shadows
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where ancient Deathless Kings once ruled through dark magic, Fateless introduces us to a society built on the ruins of a forgotten empire. The world-building is impressively layered, revealing a civilization where the goddess Maederyss weaves the Tapestry of the World, binding every soul's fate into an intricate pattern of destiny and purpose.
Kagawa's attention to detail shines through her creation of Kovass, a desert city where thieves operate in the shadows while mysterious forces known as The Circle pull strings from the darkness. The author's descriptions of the Dust Sea and the underground City of the Deathless Kings create an atmosphere that feels both ancient and immediate, drawing readers into a world where magic and mystery lurk beneath everyday survival.
The mythology surrounding the ma'jhet (the former servants of the Deathless Kings) and their continued influence adds political intrigue that elevates the story beyond simple adventure fantasy. Kagawa demonstrates remarkable skill in revealing world-building details organically through character interactions and plot progression, never overwhelming readers with exposition dumps.
Sparrow: A Protagonist Worth Following
Sparrow, the seventeen-year-old thief protagonist, embodies the evolution of Kagawa's character writing. Unlike many YA fantasy heroines who discover their specialness early, Sparrow's journey toward understanding her identity as the Fateless unfolds with genuine uncertainty and self-doubt. Her initial reluctance to accept her role feels authentic rather than manufactured for dramatic tension.
The character development throughout the narrative is particularly compelling. Sparrow begins as someone whose "only thought was of her own survival" but gradually transforms into someone willing to "put herself in danger for others." This transformation doesn't happen overnight but occurs through carefully crafted moments of choice and consequence.
Kagawa excels at writing Sparrow's internal voice, capturing the cynical street-smart perspective of someone who has learned to trust no one. The protagonist's relationship with Vahn, her mentor-turned-betrayer, provides emotional depth that resonates throughout the story. The pain of discovering that the father figure who raised her was willing to sacrifice her for a greater cause adds layers of complexity to Sparrow's character arc.
Supporting Characters That Breathe Life Into the Story
The supporting cast demonstrates Kagawa's improved ensemble writing. Raithe, the iylvahn assassin, avoids the typical "mysterious love interest" trope by maintaining clear motivations beyond romance. His dedication to protecting the Fateless stems from genuine belief in prophecy rather than instant attraction, making their developing relationship feel earned rather than obligatory.
Halek the Fatechaser provides comic relief without becoming a caricature, while his unwavering faith in fate adds philosophical depth to the narrative. Kysa, the insect rider, brings practical wisdom and cultural diversity that enriches the world-building while serving as a strong female character who operates independently of romantic subplots.
The antagonists, particularly Vahn and the emerging threat of the Deathless King, represent more than simple evil. Vahn's betrayal carries emotional weight because his motivations stem from a genuine belief that he's protecting both Sparrow and the world from chaos. This moral complexity elevates the conflict beyond good versus evil into more nuanced territory.
Romance That Enhances Rather Than Overwhelms
Kagawa handles the romantic elements with notable restraint and maturity. The developing relationship between Sparrow and Raithe builds slowly through shared experiences and genuine emotional connection rather than instant attraction. Their first kiss occurs naturally within the narrative context, and their relationship develops alongside rather than at the expense of the main plot.
The romance benefits from both characters having clear individual goals and agency. Sparrow's feelings for Raithe don't override her survival instincts or independent decision-making, while Raithe's protective instincts stem from duty that evolves into genuine care. The romantic tension enhances character development without overwhelming the fantasy adventure elements.
Pacing and Plot Structure: A Masterclass in Tension
The novel's pacing deserves particular praise. Kagawa maintains momentum throughout the narrative without rushing character development or world-building. The opening sequence in the underground city immediately establishes stakes and atmosphere, while subsequent chapters balance action sequences with quieter character moments.
The revelation of Sparrow's true nature as the Fateless unfolds with perfect timing. Rather than revealing this information early and spending the book exploring its implications, Kagawa builds mystery around Sparrow's identity before delivering a climactic revelation that recontextualizes everything that came before.
The final confrontation manages to be both emotionally satisfying and narratively complete while clearly setting up future installments. The resolution addresses the immediate threat while acknowledging that larger conflicts remain unresolved, striking an ideal balance for series fiction.
Writing Style: Evolved and Confident
Kagawa's prose has matured significantly since her earlier works. The writing maintains accessibility without sacrificing sophistication, and her action sequences are particularly well-crafted. The author's descriptions of magic and combat are vivid without becoming overwrought, while dialogue feels natural and character-appropriate.
The narrative voice captures Sparrow's perspective effectively, balancing cynical street wisdom with moments of vulnerability and wonder. Kagawa's ability to write from the perspective of someone who has lived rough while maintaining reader sympathy demonstrates her skill as a character writer.
Themes That Resonate
Fateless explores themes of destiny versus free will with genuine sophistication. The concept of the Fateless—someone whose thread doesn't appear in the Tapestry of the World—provides an excellent metaphor for individual agency in the face of predetermined fate. Sparrow's journey toward accepting her role while maintaining her independence speaks to universal themes of growing up and accepting responsibility.
The book also examines the nature of family and loyalty through Sparrow's relationships with both Vahn and her new companions. The question of whether blood ties or chosen family matter more provides emotional depth that elevates the fantasy elements.
Themes of redemption and second chances permeate the narrative, particularly through Raithe's character arc and Sparrow's willingness to trust again after betrayal. These themes feel organic to the story rather than artificially imposed.
Minor Criticisms
While Fateless succeeds on most levels, a few elements could have been stronger. Some secondary characters, particularly among the Circle, could have used more individual development to distinguish them beyond their role as antagonists. Additionally, certain world-building elements around the iylvahn culture feel underdeveloped, though this may be intentional setup for future books.
The magic system, while atmospheric, could benefit from clearer rules and limitations. The distinction between different types of magic and their costs isn't always clear, which occasionally makes magical solutions feel convenient rather than earned.
Final Verdict
Fateless represents Julie Kagawa at her most confident and sophisticated. The novel successfully launches a new series while telling a complete and satisfying story on its own merits. With its compelling protagonist, rich world-building, and mature handling of romance and themes, this book should appeal to both longtime Kagawa fans and newcomers to her work.
The story succeeds in creating a fantasy world that feels both epic in scope and intimate in character focus. Sparrow's journey from cynical thief to reluctant hero provides excellent character development, while the supporting cast and world-building create a foundation for what promises to be an excellent series.
For readers seeking fantasy that balances adventure, romance, and character development while exploring meaningful themes, Fateless delivers on all fronts. Kagawa has created something special here—a series opener that leaves readers eager for more while fully satisfying as a standalone narrative.
September 11, 2025
A fantastic fantasy with a cracking pace and characters to fall in love with.
I'll be real - there's not a lot that's particularly new here, but you give me Aladdin vibes and I'm usually gonna be pretty happy.
Sparrow is a Top Thief, contracted to The Most Dangerous Job ever. It naturally goes horribly awry and she finds herself fleeing her home with her Funny Friend and Brooding Protector in tow.
In spite of the cliche characters, I kinda loved them. *blush* I mean, there is a reason why they are reoccurring stereotypes - they are loveable, if done right.
Kagawa allows us to get to know the characters, and fall in love with them slowly but surely. They work well together, and there is a great balance of sass and tenderness. I'm quite vocal about not really liking romance but I did get sucked into this one completely because it was written well as a side-effect of the story instead of the entire plot. Masterfully done.
The story is great fun, with plenty of action keeping our characters on their toes. There's challenge and high stakes and magical creatures that will make your skin crawl with their creepiness.
It's a really fun story that kept me invested, so I'll be keen to check out the sequel.
I'd say similar vibes to two of my faves - The City of Brass and The Stardust Thief but not quite as epic as those. This is a little more YA.
Highly recommend for fantasy fans that like the action and magic to feature, with a small serve of romance on the side.
With thanks to Harper Collins for an ARC
I'll be real - there's not a lot that's particularly new here, but you give me Aladdin vibes and I'm usually gonna be pretty happy.
Sparrow is a Top Thief, contracted to The Most Dangerous Job ever. It naturally goes horribly awry and she finds herself fleeing her home with her Funny Friend and Brooding Protector in tow.
In spite of the cliche characters, I kinda loved them. *blush* I mean, there is a reason why they are reoccurring stereotypes - they are loveable, if done right.
Kagawa allows us to get to know the characters, and fall in love with them slowly but surely. They work well together, and there is a great balance of sass and tenderness. I'm quite vocal about not really liking romance but I did get sucked into this one completely because it was written well as a side-effect of the story instead of the entire plot. Masterfully done.
The story is great fun, with plenty of action keeping our characters on their toes. There's challenge and high stakes and magical creatures that will make your skin crawl with their creepiness.
It's a really fun story that kept me invested, so I'll be keen to check out the sequel.
I'd say similar vibes to two of my faves - The City of Brass and The Stardust Thief but not quite as epic as those. This is a little more YA.
Highly recommend for fantasy fans that like the action and magic to feature, with a small serve of romance on the side.
With thanks to Harper Collins for an ARC
August 10, 2025
3.75 stars
July 25, 2025
In dit boek komen twee werelden samen, boeken & games. Super leuk om te zien hoe ze inspiratie heeft gehaald uit Assassins creed & Prince of Persia (oke ook uit Thief maar die heb ik niet gespeeld). Ik stelde me ook echt voor dat Sparrow in de kleding van Assassins Creed rondliep.
De wereldopbouw is goed gedaan. Je kan je het landschap en de wereld goed inbeelden, de grotendeels dorre en woenstijnachtige wereld, waarin tijdens het demonenuur zelfs twee zonnen zijn. Je voelt tijdens het lezen nog net niet je eigen huid wegbranden. Ik vond het wel jammer dat er geen map in het boek zit.
Er zitten veel diverse stammen en volken in het boek, die hun eigen cultuur hebben. Van een aantal krijgen we ook een kijkje in hun wereld. De diversiteit sprak me enorm aan en de personages zijn goed neer gezet. Ik vond de meeste karakters erg leuk en sommige krijg je een hekel aan. Iedereen heeft zo zijn eigen doel en bestemming.
De FMC, Sparrow, is een dief en ziet zichzelf ook niet als meer dan dat, maar wel als de beste dief van het gilde. Later in het boek gaat ze tijdens het avontuur anders naar zichzelf kijken en komen de daarbij behorende struggles en onzekerheid naar boven. Langzaam vind er persoonlijke ontwikkeling plaats.
Het boek heeft een hoog tempo en er zit veel actie en spanning in. Door het hoge tempo en de vlotte schrijfstijl vlieg je door het boek heen.
Julie heeft wederom een heerlijk boek vol actie, spannende avonturen, nieuwe vrienden, magie, enge monsters en vijanden weten neer te zetten. Ik heb nu al zin in deel 2, ik ben zo benieuwd hoe dit verhaal verder gaat! En ik denk dat dit boek gamers aan het lezen kan krijgen.
De wereldopbouw is goed gedaan. Je kan je het landschap en de wereld goed inbeelden, de grotendeels dorre en woenstijnachtige wereld, waarin tijdens het demonenuur zelfs twee zonnen zijn. Je voelt tijdens het lezen nog net niet je eigen huid wegbranden. Ik vond het wel jammer dat er geen map in het boek zit.
Er zitten veel diverse stammen en volken in het boek, die hun eigen cultuur hebben. Van een aantal krijgen we ook een kijkje in hun wereld. De diversiteit sprak me enorm aan en de personages zijn goed neer gezet. Ik vond de meeste karakters erg leuk en sommige krijg je een hekel aan. Iedereen heeft zo zijn eigen doel en bestemming.
De FMC, Sparrow, is een dief en ziet zichzelf ook niet als meer dan dat, maar wel als de beste dief van het gilde. Later in het boek gaat ze tijdens het avontuur anders naar zichzelf kijken en komen de daarbij behorende struggles en onzekerheid naar boven. Langzaam vind er persoonlijke ontwikkeling plaats.
Het boek heeft een hoog tempo en er zit veel actie en spanning in. Door het hoge tempo en de vlotte schrijfstijl vlieg je door het boek heen.
Julie heeft wederom een heerlijk boek vol actie, spannende avonturen, nieuwe vrienden, magie, enge monsters en vijanden weten neer te zetten. Ik heb nu al zin in deel 2, ik ben zo benieuwd hoe dit verhaal verder gaat! En ik denk dat dit boek gamers aan het lezen kan krijgen.
August 31, 2025
Dit boek was een beetje een koortsdroom. Er gebeurde zo ontzettend veel, zo veel actie, zo weinig romance. Het is een goede YA en als je niet van slome dingen houdt, is dit 100% een aanrader. Wel vond ik er juist iets te veel in gebeuren, miste ik een kaart, miste ik wat meer world building en ook iets meer diepgang in de gebeurtenissen. Het plot was vrij mager en dat vond ik stiekem wel jammer 🥲.
July 19, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This was a good start to a new YA fantasy series by Julie Kagawa. This is my first book with the author, and she usually has high ratings for her books, so I am interested in reading more by her. It's aworld filled with a thieves guild, assassins, treasure plundering adventures, and betrayal. It is fast-paced and very engaging, making you want to know more. I wish there was a little more world building as I feel that was a little lacking, but maybe we'll get more in the second book. It definitely has the YA feel to it, but it's enjoyable enough for adults as well. Sparrow is an interesting character, and I can't wait to see how she develops further in the books. Great audiobook!
This was a good start to a new YA fantasy series by Julie Kagawa. This is my first book with the author, and she usually has high ratings for her books, so I am interested in reading more by her. It's aworld filled with a thieves guild, assassins, treasure plundering adventures, and betrayal. It is fast-paced and very engaging, making you want to know more. I wish there was a little more world building as I feel that was a little lacking, but maybe we'll get more in the second book. It definitely has the YA feel to it, but it's enjoyable enough for adults as well. Sparrow is an interesting character, and I can't wait to see how she develops further in the books. Great audiobook!
July 21, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via the publishers.
Fateless is a new YA dystopian fantasy book filled with adventure, magic, and monsters.
Sparrow has been a thief working for the Guild since childhood when she was found, orphaned, and alone. Now, seventeen and one of the best thieves the Guild has, she is given a mission that could give her a higher position within the ranks. The mission is both risky and dangerous, but Sparrow can't turn it down even if she wanted to. And what she unleashes during her mission will change not only her future but awakens a Deathless king who'll stop at nothing to have her in his grasp. For she is the Fateless and the only one who can be his ultimate undoing.
This is such a fast-paced thrill ride that had my heart pounding, head spinning, and heart aching. I loved the rag-tag group of friends Sparrow makes on her journey and can't wait to read more in book 2! Julie Kagawa has been a huge favourite YA author ever since I picked up her Iron Fey series many years ago, and this book has me so excited for another spellbinding adventure!
Fateless is a new YA dystopian fantasy book filled with adventure, magic, and monsters.
Sparrow has been a thief working for the Guild since childhood when she was found, orphaned, and alone. Now, seventeen and one of the best thieves the Guild has, she is given a mission that could give her a higher position within the ranks. The mission is both risky and dangerous, but Sparrow can't turn it down even if she wanted to. And what she unleashes during her mission will change not only her future but awakens a Deathless king who'll stop at nothing to have her in his grasp. For she is the Fateless and the only one who can be his ultimate undoing.
This is such a fast-paced thrill ride that had my heart pounding, head spinning, and heart aching. I loved the rag-tag group of friends Sparrow makes on her journey and can't wait to read more in book 2! Julie Kagawa has been a huge favourite YA author ever since I picked up her Iron Fey series many years ago, and this book has me so excited for another spellbinding adventure!
November 19, 2024
I received a copy through harpercollins/netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story was spectacular. It took no time to take off and kept an intense pace to the end.
The world building is so descriptive and well done. You can see it, smell it (though not always a pleasant thought), and feel it.
If you're looking for:
Betrayals
An unlikely bond of friendships
Intense pace
Thieves and assassins
Mythical beasts
A chance to defy fate and prophecies
Then this is a read for you.
This story was spectacular. It took no time to take off and kept an intense pace to the end.
The world building is so descriptive and well done. You can see it, smell it (though not always a pleasant thought), and feel it.
If you're looking for:
Betrayals
An unlikely bond of friendships
Intense pace
Thieves and assassins
Mythical beasts
A chance to defy fate and prophecies
Then this is a read for you.
July 16, 2026
It has been awhile since I read Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series. I remembered enjoying her writing style and looked forward to reading a story about a thief with a destiny larger than anyone could imagine.
Sparrow was raised in a thieves guild. She is great at sneaking in and out of places and fading into the background. She thought it was a good thing that she was finally tasked by the Circle for a job. The job was supposed to be impossible, but when she accomplished it she set into motion events that will change her life forever.
With the help of Fatechaser and an assassin she will travel to places she never thought to go and become a person she didn't know she could be. In a world where she believed everyone had a thread in the tapestry of fate, Sparrow found out that she doesn't have a thread and that means she may be the only person that can stop an evil king risen from the dead.
This has some classic tropes in the story. A girl with a destiny, betrayed by the people she thought cared for her. Found family of travel companions to go on an epic journey. Danger around every corner and a conscience she didn't know she had. Not to mention the longing for an assassin turned ali that is slightly distracting as well.
This was a solid opening book in a new world. Told with just a single PoV Sparrow has to carry the story. I was a little worried for a minute that there would be a love triangle but Halek the fate chaser is just a fun character with a bit a charisma and whimsy to him. Raithe, the assassin is from a different long lived race is a bit on the stoic and broody side and plays a solid if not tropey love interest/bodyguard.
The journey to meet with the Queen of Raithe's people and escape the newly risen king lead to plenty of opportunities to fight monsters and see what magic and tech is possible in this world. I stayed intereseted through most of the book. I'm sometimes a little too old for the YA love aspect of the story but I did like Sparrow's growth in the story.
Narration
Performance: ★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★
Diction: ★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw is a new to me narrator and while she did a good job, I struggled a little telling Sparrow and Raithe apart a few times. They voices seemed a little similar in some aspects and so a couple of times I caught myself rewinding just a little to figure out who said what. It could just be a me thing and the rest of the voices were distinct. I did enjoy Halek's voice the most as the fate chaser seems to get some of the greatest lines and fun moments. Overall a good performance that I was able to listen to at my usual 1.5x speed.
Sparrow was raised in a thieves guild. She is great at sneaking in and out of places and fading into the background. She thought it was a good thing that she was finally tasked by the Circle for a job. The job was supposed to be impossible, but when she accomplished it she set into motion events that will change her life forever.
With the help of Fatechaser and an assassin she will travel to places she never thought to go and become a person she didn't know she could be. In a world where she believed everyone had a thread in the tapestry of fate, Sparrow found out that she doesn't have a thread and that means she may be the only person that can stop an evil king risen from the dead.
This has some classic tropes in the story. A girl with a destiny, betrayed by the people she thought cared for her. Found family of travel companions to go on an epic journey. Danger around every corner and a conscience she didn't know she had. Not to mention the longing for an assassin turned ali that is slightly distracting as well.
This was a solid opening book in a new world. Told with just a single PoV Sparrow has to carry the story. I was a little worried for a minute that there would be a love triangle but Halek the fate chaser is just a fun character with a bit a charisma and whimsy to him. Raithe, the assassin is from a different long lived race is a bit on the stoic and broody side and plays a solid if not tropey love interest/bodyguard.
The journey to meet with the Queen of Raithe's people and escape the newly risen king lead to plenty of opportunities to fight monsters and see what magic and tech is possible in this world. I stayed intereseted through most of the book. I'm sometimes a little too old for the YA love aspect of the story but I did like Sparrow's growth in the story.
Narration
Performance: ★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★
Diction: ★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★
Sound Effects: None
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw is a new to me narrator and while she did a good job, I struggled a little telling Sparrow and Raithe apart a few times. They voices seemed a little similar in some aspects and so a couple of times I caught myself rewinding just a little to figure out who said what. It could just be a me thing and the rest of the voices were distinct. I did enjoy Halek's voice the most as the fate chaser seems to get some of the greatest lines and fun moments. Overall a good performance that I was able to listen to at my usual 1.5x speed.
August 7, 2026
This had everything that I expect from Julie Kagawa. The world is rich with so much lore. The stakes are high. The plot is breakneck with twists and turns.
I had so much fun reading this. The cover got me good too, it is beautiful. While it is new and exciting, there was something about it that struck me as nostalgic too. The world, the stakes and the gripping tale reminded me a lot of The Mummy series. Its not a 1:1 comparison but it captures the vibes for sure. So when in the mood for something cozy yet thrilling, maybe give this one a shot.
I had so much fun reading this. The cover got me good too, it is beautiful. While it is new and exciting, there was something about it that struck me as nostalgic too. The world, the stakes and the gripping tale reminded me a lot of The Mummy series. Its not a 1:1 comparison but it captures the vibes for sure. So when in the mood for something cozy yet thrilling, maybe give this one a shot.
August 16, 2026
Hèhè, uit!
Nog nooit heb ik een boek van Julie Kagawa op mijn te lezen lijst gezet, want het klonk als fantasy die ik niet zou begrijpen (niet mijn smaak) en de verhaallijnen spraken me ook nooit voldoende aan om het überhaupt eens te proberen.
Fateless werd genomineerd voor Beste Boek voor Jongeren en voor het 6e jaar op rij lees ik alle nominaties. Uiteraard staat het me vrij deze dan over te slaan maar gezien ik deze keuze als nominatie ook niet helemaal begreep wilde ik het toch ff bekijken. Ik heb alleen nog nooit zoveel tegenzin gehad tijdens het lezen 😂 (vandaar mijn hèhè, die alles te maken heeft met mijn tegenzin en ik vond het behoorlijk ploeteren).
Dus ik heb best wat diagonaal gelezen en het einde misschien ook niet echt heel goed. Boektechnisch is mijn conclusie dat het boek voor jongeren best prima is, zelfs de hoeveelheid personages viel me best mee voor een fantasyboek, maar er gebeurde ook weer niet zóveel voor een eerste deel en de nominatie snap ik eerlijk gezegd toch ook niet... Zo bijzonder vond ik het verhaal dan ook weer niet als ik kijk naar inhoud/schrijfwijze/plot.
Vanwege het verhaal dan toch 3 sterren en niet gebaseerd op mijn tegenzin.
Nog nooit heb ik een boek van Julie Kagawa op mijn te lezen lijst gezet, want het klonk als fantasy die ik niet zou begrijpen (niet mijn smaak) en de verhaallijnen spraken me ook nooit voldoende aan om het überhaupt eens te proberen.
Fateless werd genomineerd voor Beste Boek voor Jongeren en voor het 6e jaar op rij lees ik alle nominaties. Uiteraard staat het me vrij deze dan over te slaan maar gezien ik deze keuze als nominatie ook niet helemaal begreep wilde ik het toch ff bekijken. Ik heb alleen nog nooit zoveel tegenzin gehad tijdens het lezen 😂 (vandaar mijn hèhè, die alles te maken heeft met mijn tegenzin en ik vond het behoorlijk ploeteren).
Dus ik heb best wat diagonaal gelezen en het einde misschien ook niet echt heel goed. Boektechnisch is mijn conclusie dat het boek voor jongeren best prima is, zelfs de hoeveelheid personages viel me best mee voor een fantasyboek, maar er gebeurde ook weer niet zóveel voor een eerste deel en de nominatie snap ik eerlijk gezegd toch ook niet... Zo bijzonder vond ik het verhaal dan ook weer niet als ik kijk naar inhoud/schrijfwijze/plot.
Vanwege het verhaal dan toch 3 sterren en niet gebaseerd op mijn tegenzin.
July 12, 2025
I received the Audio Arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for a review. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this opportunity.
Fateless follows Sparrow, a young girl who belongs to a Theives Guild and is tasked with retrieving a priceless artefact from the last era of Deathless Kings which changes the course of her entire life, embedding her right in the centre of a fight for the very future of the world.
The world building was the highlight of this book for me, I loved learning about the concept of the Fateless and how Sparrow’s revelations relate and challenge those notions. I loved how Kagawa tied this as well into the history of the Deathless Kings and how she detailed this history within the story made it feel very real from my perspective. I liked how the history and the historical artefacts were used to further the plot and the scenes where the characters were uncovering these stories together. The world itself also had some really cool elements, I really enjoyed the scenes where they were in the desert and I thought Kagawa did a good job at creating vivid imagery that felt fantastical, especially with the giant scorpions!
As for the not so good elements, I don’t think there was anything particularly bad about the book, but I didn’t really think the actual plot was all that interesting. It’s very formulaic and predictable, following a rather standard plotline for YA books. Even the initial set up of following a member of a thieves/assassin’s guild reminds me a lot of series like Throne of Glass. The plotline was rather predictable and I didn’t feel myself anticipating picking the book up again as I felt I knew what was going to happen. I didn’t care for the romance at all, I didn’t fee like there was any depth to the relationship, it felt very ‘baby’s first relationship’ which I don’t think is necessarily terrible for a YA book but was personally something that I did not enjoy. I didn’t think the characters were particularly well done either, Sparrow felt like a very generic main character and was rather boring. I do think that this may still be enough for the target audience as I am not a teenager so, that audience may connect better with the character, but as someone who has read many upon many of YA novels, Sparrow was a rather lack lustre main character.
Overall, Fateless was an enjoyable book, the worldbuilding in particular really shinned but the actual story and character’s itself were quite generic in comparison. I do however think that this would be a great recommendation for younger readers who are searching for unique worldbuilding and lore and aren’t too pressed over characterization.
I also listen to this via audio and I wasn’t the biggest fan of it. The author’s accent changed a lot and I feel like none of the voices she used actually fit the characters. Her male voices in particular were not enjoyable and often broke the immersion with the story.
Fateless follows Sparrow, a young girl who belongs to a Theives Guild and is tasked with retrieving a priceless artefact from the last era of Deathless Kings which changes the course of her entire life, embedding her right in the centre of a fight for the very future of the world.
The world building was the highlight of this book for me, I loved learning about the concept of the Fateless and how Sparrow’s revelations relate and challenge those notions. I loved how Kagawa tied this as well into the history of the Deathless Kings and how she detailed this history within the story made it feel very real from my perspective. I liked how the history and the historical artefacts were used to further the plot and the scenes where the characters were uncovering these stories together. The world itself also had some really cool elements, I really enjoyed the scenes where they were in the desert and I thought Kagawa did a good job at creating vivid imagery that felt fantastical, especially with the giant scorpions!
As for the not so good elements, I don’t think there was anything particularly bad about the book, but I didn’t really think the actual plot was all that interesting. It’s very formulaic and predictable, following a rather standard plotline for YA books. Even the initial set up of following a member of a thieves/assassin’s guild reminds me a lot of series like Throne of Glass. The plotline was rather predictable and I didn’t feel myself anticipating picking the book up again as I felt I knew what was going to happen. I didn’t care for the romance at all, I didn’t fee like there was any depth to the relationship, it felt very ‘baby’s first relationship’ which I don’t think is necessarily terrible for a YA book but was personally something that I did not enjoy. I didn’t think the characters were particularly well done either, Sparrow felt like a very generic main character and was rather boring. I do think that this may still be enough for the target audience as I am not a teenager so, that audience may connect better with the character, but as someone who has read many upon many of YA novels, Sparrow was a rather lack lustre main character.
Overall, Fateless was an enjoyable book, the worldbuilding in particular really shinned but the actual story and character’s itself were quite generic in comparison. I do however think that this would be a great recommendation for younger readers who are searching for unique worldbuilding and lore and aren’t too pressed over characterization.
I also listen to this via audio and I wasn’t the biggest fan of it. The author’s accent changed a lot and I feel like none of the voices she used actually fit the characters. Her male voices in particular were not enjoyable and often broke the immersion with the story.
July 13, 2025
if you’re looking for a fast paced book to get you out of a slump, fateless might just be the one for you.
the world building in fateless has to be my favourite aspect (I mean, the whole book is my favourite thing about it). there’s so much lore and history and it’s all perfectly sprinkled in to keep the reader on their toes. fateless gives major assassins creed vibes (I recommend reading this while listening to the assassins creed soundtrack in the background).
all of the characters were loveable (even the bad guys at some stage). sparrow was so much fun to read about as a fmc. she was badass and smart, I’d trust her with my life. and raithe????????? my love???? he deserves the world 🥹🥹
I’m super excited to learn more about kysa (hopefully in a sequel 🤞🏼🤞🏼). halek provided the perfect amount of comedic relief between the death and destruction.
as someone who’s never read a book by julie kagawa before, I shall be reading her backlist asap 😍😍
the world building in fateless has to be my favourite aspect (I mean, the whole book is my favourite thing about it). there’s so much lore and history and it’s all perfectly sprinkled in to keep the reader on their toes. fateless gives major assassins creed vibes (I recommend reading this while listening to the assassins creed soundtrack in the background).
all of the characters were loveable (even the bad guys at some stage). sparrow was so much fun to read about as a fmc. she was badass and smart, I’d trust her with my life. and raithe????????? my love???? he deserves the world 🥹🥹
I’m super excited to learn more about kysa (hopefully in a sequel 🤞🏼🤞🏼). halek provided the perfect amount of comedic relief between the death and destruction.
as someone who’s never read a book by julie kagawa before, I shall be reading her backlist asap 😍😍
July 29, 2025
This was one was rough. Majorly rough....
How many times does one need to bite their lip?
If I took a shot for how many times the word 'abomination' was used in chapter 24...
The insta-love was hard to get through. Blech.
A fae who is 100's of years old who is somehow enamored with a 17-year-old girl that he just met, even though her personality is as absent as her parents...enough said there.
Annoying FMC who has no backbone, doesn't believe in herself, and doesn't think she's pretty even though she obviously is. Blech, blech, blech.
Lots of childish dialogue. I'm not even sure why I have it two stars. Oh well.
How many times does one need to bite their lip?
If I took a shot for how many times the word 'abomination' was used in chapter 24...
The insta-love was hard to get through. Blech.
A fae who is 100's of years old who is somehow enamored with a 17-year-old girl that he just met, even though her personality is as absent as her parents...enough said there.
Annoying FMC who has no backbone, doesn't believe in herself, and doesn't think she's pretty even though she obviously is. Blech, blech, blech.
Lots of childish dialogue. I'm not even sure why I have it two stars. Oh well.
September 1, 2025
Once again, Julie Kagawa does not dissapoint! I used to love (and still do) the whole world of The Iron Fey. The Blood of Eden is also one of my favourites, Talon was pretty fun (but not as good as the previous two) and now this book lived up to the comparison as well. Each of the author's books are great in their own way and very different from each other.
This story was awesome - gripping, adventurous, romantic and amazingly told.
This story was awesome - gripping, adventurous, romantic and amazingly told.
June 1, 2025
2 ⭐️
A strangely paced, YA fantasy novel with a strong (but very mistrustful) FMC and a very subtle romantic subplot. Set in a dust covered city, centred initially around a thieves’ guild, this book explores themes of camaraderie, being thrown into the spotlight and Fate.
For fans of YA fantasy that doesn’t dig too deep, has an easy to hate antagonist, and a straightforward plot. For readers who don’t care too deeply for a romantic subplot, and want an easy read.
Story: 2/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Spice: 🫑 (kissing, but it is a YA novel)
Pacing: 2/5
Plot twists: 2/5
Magic system: 2/5
Sparrow is a 17yr old who has grown up in the Thieves’ Guild, she spent her life honing her talent of taking what isn’t hers. She has relied on the Guildmaster, who has become like a surrogate father, to guide her. Then one day she’s given a task to steal something extraordinary for the mysterious owners of the guild called The Circle. And this throws her into a world she never knew existed. She will lose friendships, struggle with who to trust, and find out more about herself than she thought possible. All while she is surrounded by the end of the world as she knows it.
YA is always a challenge in my mind. I think some writers rise to the challenge of writing a deep, complex story with accessibility for a younger age group. The Hunger Games games books are a perfect example of this.
I think Fateless, personally, missed this mark.
I felt like the author was dumbing a LOT down for the reader. We had a lot of telling and not showing. Plot dumps, mainly from the MMC, and even melodrama “asides” from multiple characters where they would mutter their true intentions or feelings out loud in front of the FMC for no conceivable reason apart from being a plot device.
Yes, it is a fantasy world, but i struggled to get past these moments of obvious plot dumps. It’s a real bugbear for me personally, so it did grate on me more than it might others.
I think the idea of the Fate was a good one with a lot of promise. However, I think how it was executed was confusing to the reader, was it actual or conceptual? Because Fate was set out like a religion that some bought into and others didn’t. But then further into the novel it seemed like the goddess of Fates WAS real in this world, and that there was an actual “tapestry” that everyone was sewed into etc. But it was really underdeveloped as a concept, which is why I feel it was so confusing as a reader.
I must admit, I hated the concept of the Fateless, but mainly because it was mentioned 113 times (so frequently!) and felt like it was only mentioned to annoy the FMC and the reader by telling you it’s a super important thing, but we can’t tell you about it yet… Which just meant when we got the revelation it was underwhelming and I’d already disengaged with the concept. It’s also bound to be a classic deus ex machina, where the Fateless resolves all issues purely because they are this “special” person. Which I’m just not a fan of, it degrades the character because it requires no room for them to really change or grow because everything just “works out” for them.
“ ‘(…) you need to come with me, Fateless’ (…) There was that word again. Fateless. ‘Why?’ “
And my last real frustration was the pacing of everything. It felt like suddenly there was an antagonist and there was minimal build up or world building around them. They were suddenly in the story and then the MMC plot dumped all about them. They suddenly reared their heads when they hadn’t for a while, and were just in time to create conflict at the end of the book. It felt rushed and predictable.
Similarly, the romance only developed because of forced proximity and a bit of fighting together? I don’t know, maybe this is the teenage love angle and it all happens very quickly and spontaneously (hormones and all) but it didn’t hit for me with how it developed. It was just, there.
I did enjoy some of the characterisations (although characters also conveniently “popped” into the plot), and liked how the initial task from the Guildmaster developed into something unexpected. The initial world building for the city was good, I liked the hot stifling world the author had started to build.
I just feel like the followup job was when the story started to spiral into melodrama, plot dump and convenience to move things along. It felt like the story had lost its authenticity in the excitement to meet the “baddies” and get the plot sprinting along.
The ending was predictable, but did set the book up nicely for part two. It was very easy, with limited actual peril compared to the perceived.
Overall, this story fell flat for me. I didn’t believe the truth behind it, there was too many paragraphs of plot mixed into the dialogue and I felt like the author felt like they needed to explicitly tell the reader what was happening next. Rather than implying or letting the plot progress organically within the writing. I just don’t think the story hit what it intended.
“ ‘As long as you’re here fate can’t get me.’ ”
Thank you so much to the publisher, author and NetGalley for this ARC, all views and opinions are my own ✨
A strangely paced, YA fantasy novel with a strong (but very mistrustful) FMC and a very subtle romantic subplot. Set in a dust covered city, centred initially around a thieves’ guild, this book explores themes of camaraderie, being thrown into the spotlight and Fate.
For fans of YA fantasy that doesn’t dig too deep, has an easy to hate antagonist, and a straightforward plot. For readers who don’t care too deeply for a romantic subplot, and want an easy read.
Story: 2/5
Characters: 2.5/5
Spice: 🫑 (kissing, but it is a YA novel)
Pacing: 2/5
Plot twists: 2/5
Magic system: 2/5
Sparrow is a 17yr old who has grown up in the Thieves’ Guild, she spent her life honing her talent of taking what isn’t hers. She has relied on the Guildmaster, who has become like a surrogate father, to guide her. Then one day she’s given a task to steal something extraordinary for the mysterious owners of the guild called The Circle. And this throws her into a world she never knew existed. She will lose friendships, struggle with who to trust, and find out more about herself than she thought possible. All while she is surrounded by the end of the world as she knows it.
YA is always a challenge in my mind. I think some writers rise to the challenge of writing a deep, complex story with accessibility for a younger age group. The Hunger Games games books are a perfect example of this.
I think Fateless, personally, missed this mark.
I felt like the author was dumbing a LOT down for the reader. We had a lot of telling and not showing. Plot dumps, mainly from the MMC, and even melodrama “asides” from multiple characters where they would mutter their true intentions or feelings out loud in front of the FMC for no conceivable reason apart from being a plot device.
Yes, it is a fantasy world, but i struggled to get past these moments of obvious plot dumps. It’s a real bugbear for me personally, so it did grate on me more than it might others.
I think the idea of the Fate was a good one with a lot of promise. However, I think how it was executed was confusing to the reader, was it actual or conceptual? Because Fate was set out like a religion that some bought into and others didn’t. But then further into the novel it seemed like the goddess of Fates WAS real in this world, and that there was an actual “tapestry” that everyone was sewed into etc. But it was really underdeveloped as a concept, which is why I feel it was so confusing as a reader.
I must admit, I hated the concept of the Fateless, but mainly because it was mentioned 113 times (so frequently!) and felt like it was only mentioned to annoy the FMC and the reader by telling you it’s a super important thing, but we can’t tell you about it yet… Which just meant when we got the revelation it was underwhelming and I’d already disengaged with the concept. It’s also bound to be a classic deus ex machina, where the Fateless resolves all issues purely because they are this “special” person. Which I’m just not a fan of, it degrades the character because it requires no room for them to really change or grow because everything just “works out” for them.
“ ‘(…) you need to come with me, Fateless’ (…) There was that word again. Fateless. ‘Why?’ “
And my last real frustration was the pacing of everything. It felt like suddenly there was an antagonist and there was minimal build up or world building around them. They were suddenly in the story and then the MMC plot dumped all about them. They suddenly reared their heads when they hadn’t for a while, and were just in time to create conflict at the end of the book. It felt rushed and predictable.
Similarly, the romance only developed because of forced proximity and a bit of fighting together? I don’t know, maybe this is the teenage love angle and it all happens very quickly and spontaneously (hormones and all) but it didn’t hit for me with how it developed. It was just, there.
I did enjoy some of the characterisations (although characters also conveniently “popped” into the plot), and liked how the initial task from the Guildmaster developed into something unexpected. The initial world building for the city was good, I liked the hot stifling world the author had started to build.
I just feel like the followup job was when the story started to spiral into melodrama, plot dump and convenience to move things along. It felt like the story had lost its authenticity in the excitement to meet the “baddies” and get the plot sprinting along.
The ending was predictable, but did set the book up nicely for part two. It was very easy, with limited actual peril compared to the perceived.
Overall, this story fell flat for me. I didn’t believe the truth behind it, there was too many paragraphs of plot mixed into the dialogue and I felt like the author felt like they needed to explicitly tell the reader what was happening next. Rather than implying or letting the plot progress organically within the writing. I just don’t think the story hit what it intended.
“ ‘As long as you’re here fate can’t get me.’ ”
Thank you so much to the publisher, author and NetGalley for this ARC, all views and opinions are my own ✨
August 16, 2026
Het was leuk om dit boek als buddy read te lezen (Irene, het is altijd leuk met jou!!!)
Maar, het verhaal voelt iets te makkelijk aan dus misschien pas ik niet meer echt bij het publiek waarvoor dit bedoeld is. Het leest wel vlot en ik heb me geamuseerd.
Maar, het verhaal voelt iets te makkelijk aan dus misschien pas ik niet meer echt bij het publiek waarvoor dit bedoeld is. Het leest wel vlot en ik heb me geamuseerd.
July 13, 2025
Prince of Persia meets Assasin’s Creed in this high stakes fantasy that I thoroughly devoured!
With ancient, ruin-filled deserts, long dead kings (and the catastrophic magic that destroyed both.) To the endearing cast of characters who forge their own paths (in a world ruled entirely by fate); Julie Kagawa has crafted a rich, dangerous and plot twisty world that I couldn’t get enough of.
Firstly I adored our protagonist, Sparrow, a cynical thief who inadvertently finds herself at the centre of a dangerous plot to resurrect a Deathless king. I won’t go into too much detail on this, but fantasy adventure lovers are gonna be in their element as she dodges long extinct beasts, ancient curses and even an assassin (who she reluctantly teams up with alongside a cinnamon roll Fatechaser, and a badass rock beetle rider.)
An orphan raised by the Thief guild, Sparrow’s no stranger to abandonment and betrayal. So her journey, in letting down her guard and learning to trust others (despite her ingrained survival instincts that say otherwise) was a pretty emotional one.
Though, I would’ve liked to have learnt more about the “Fateless”.This is the first in a new series though, so I’m sure we’ll get to in book 2.
I did, however, love the focus on fate and free will! And felt the exploration of power and corruption, (in a system that thrives on exploitation and hoarding resources) brought a much needed sense of depth, that made rooting for Sparrow both satisfying and anxiety inducing.
The romance between Sparrow and Raithe was good too, if a little brief. But the real draw for me was the world building, which included so many things I loved: immersive landscapes (the Prince of Persia-vibes are strong), interesting lore and mythical creatures I’d love to get a bestiary on.
Overall, an enjoyable read that fans of Sabaa Tahir, found family dynamics or (heart-poundingly) pacy action don’t want to miss.
Also, thanks to HQ stories for the proof.
With ancient, ruin-filled deserts, long dead kings (and the catastrophic magic that destroyed both.) To the endearing cast of characters who forge their own paths (in a world ruled entirely by fate); Julie Kagawa has crafted a rich, dangerous and plot twisty world that I couldn’t get enough of.
Firstly I adored our protagonist, Sparrow, a cynical thief who inadvertently finds herself at the centre of a dangerous plot to resurrect a Deathless king. I won’t go into too much detail on this, but fantasy adventure lovers are gonna be in their element as she dodges long extinct beasts, ancient curses and even an assassin (who she reluctantly teams up with alongside a cinnamon roll Fatechaser, and a badass rock beetle rider.)
An orphan raised by the Thief guild, Sparrow’s no stranger to abandonment and betrayal. So her journey, in letting down her guard and learning to trust others (despite her ingrained survival instincts that say otherwise) was a pretty emotional one.
Though, I would’ve liked to have learnt more about the “Fateless”.This is the first in a new series though, so I’m sure we’ll get to in book 2.
I did, however, love the focus on fate and free will! And felt the exploration of power and corruption, (in a system that thrives on exploitation and hoarding resources) brought a much needed sense of depth, that made rooting for Sparrow both satisfying and anxiety inducing.
The romance between Sparrow and Raithe was good too, if a little brief. But the real draw for me was the world building, which included so many things I loved: immersive landscapes (the Prince of Persia-vibes are strong), interesting lore and mythical creatures I’d love to get a bestiary on.
Overall, an enjoyable read that fans of Sabaa Tahir, found family dynamics or (heart-poundingly) pacy action don’t want to miss.
Also, thanks to HQ stories for the proof.
April 15, 2025
My Thoughts
For me the hardest part of starting a new series/trilogy by an author I enjoy is worrying whether or not the first book ends on a cliffhanger or has its satisfactory resolution with a lead in for a sequel.
I feel like that worry was for nothing as not only is this first story arc wrapped up but Sparrows’ work is not done and both anticipating but also dreading waiting for book two as I want it now not later!
The action throughout was both thrilling and at times scary, the characters given life in this story were interesting to learn about and the storylines crafted within their world intrigued and kept me guessing what would happen next.
As a lover of Fantasy and Magic this first foray into the authors new Trilogy delivered on its promises quite well for me.
[EArc from Netgalley]
April 15, 2026
Die Welt ist richtig spannend, die Handlung spielt hauptsächlich in einem wüstenähnlichen Setting, mit allerlei gefährlichem Getier, aber auch mit Käfer und Echsen als Reittiere. Die Protagonistin ist sehr sympathisch und macht eine tolle Entwicklung durch, die wichtigsten Nebenfiguren bleiben allerdings ein bisschen blass. Es gibt ein, zwei Küsse mit dem Love Interest, aber Romance ist kaum vorhanden. Bis auf ein paar kleine Längen hat mir die Geschichte richtig Spaß gemacht.
June 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this fast-paced YA fantasy. There were never any boring moments, and the world-building is deep, authentic, and perfectly developed throughout without ever being overwhelming. The action scenes were so well-written and engaging. The characters are lovable and well-developed with space for more development in future books, which I can't wait to read. Halek brought such light relief to dark moments, and I really want to learn more about Kysa and her story/background. The perfect balance of pacing, world-building, and character construction and development is exactly why Julie Kagawa remains one of my favourite YA authors. It was a brilliantly adventurous read, and I can't wait for Book 2.
The dialogue and Sparrow's inner monologue could be repetitive at times, and I would have loved more build up in the relationship between Sparrow and Raithe, but these did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story at all.
I would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys action-packed YA fantasy in desert settings.
eARC provided by HQ.
The dialogue and Sparrow's inner monologue could be repetitive at times, and I would have loved more build up in the relationship between Sparrow and Raithe, but these did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story at all.
I would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys action-packed YA fantasy in desert settings.
eARC provided by HQ.
September 12, 2025
2 1/2 stars.
If you were reading paranormal young adult books around 2010, then you probably know who Julie Kagawa is. I enjoyed her work back then, so I was excited to hear she had released a new book, Fateless. The synopsis sounded intriguing, and since I had previously liked her writing, I expected a similar experience.
The book, however, was just fine. The worldbuilding didn’t feel fresh; more of a generic, dry desert setting with the heroine working as a thief in the underworld. As is typical with stories about thieves, she’s given an important mission that quickly goes south. That’s exactly what happens here. The plot, while not original, did hold my attention in the beginning, but the major beats were predictable. After each so-called “twist,” I could already see how the story was going to unfold.
The characters didn’t fare much better. Sparrow (a name I wasn’t fond of) is clearly painted as the “special snowflake.” She’s the youngest, the top thief among her group of misfits, unusually lucky, and somehow manages to slay a monster that older, more skilled warriors couldn’t defeat. She’s portrayed as flawless and capable of anything. What became frustrating was her constant insistence, nearly every chapter, that she was “just a thief” and “nothing special,” even though everything she did proved the opposite. It grew repetitive and tiresome. The two male characters alongside her were equally flat, little more than cardboard cutouts. I felt no connection to them at all. And the romance? Pure instalove. Sparrow and the assassin had zero buildup, no chemistry, and their sudden relationship felt random and forced. They’d only known each other for a few days, yet we were expected to buy into it.
Fateless had a few entertaining moments, but overall, it fell flat. Nothing about it stood out, and I can easily think of other books with the same type of story executed better. I don’t plan to continue with the series.
If you were reading paranormal young adult books around 2010, then you probably know who Julie Kagawa is. I enjoyed her work back then, so I was excited to hear she had released a new book, Fateless. The synopsis sounded intriguing, and since I had previously liked her writing, I expected a similar experience.
The book, however, was just fine. The worldbuilding didn’t feel fresh; more of a generic, dry desert setting with the heroine working as a thief in the underworld. As is typical with stories about thieves, she’s given an important mission that quickly goes south. That’s exactly what happens here. The plot, while not original, did hold my attention in the beginning, but the major beats were predictable. After each so-called “twist,” I could already see how the story was going to unfold.
The characters didn’t fare much better. Sparrow (a name I wasn’t fond of) is clearly painted as the “special snowflake.” She’s the youngest, the top thief among her group of misfits, unusually lucky, and somehow manages to slay a monster that older, more skilled warriors couldn’t defeat. She’s portrayed as flawless and capable of anything. What became frustrating was her constant insistence, nearly every chapter, that she was “just a thief” and “nothing special,” even though everything she did proved the opposite. It grew repetitive and tiresome. The two male characters alongside her were equally flat, little more than cardboard cutouts. I felt no connection to them at all. And the romance? Pure instalove. Sparrow and the assassin had zero buildup, no chemistry, and their sudden relationship felt random and forced. They’d only known each other for a few days, yet we were expected to buy into it.
Fateless had a few entertaining moments, but overall, it fell flat. Nothing about it stood out, and I can easily think of other books with the same type of story executed better. I don’t plan to continue with the series.
June 30, 2025
The plot of this story was enjoyable and I liked the world it was set in; granted, I am no video game expert, but I liked the Assassins Creed inspirations and the desert setting.
The book had some flaws, in my opinion, and they made the story not feel fleshed out enough. Firstly, this book is a fast-paced book. So much so that I’d view this book as probably similar to what other series try to cover in 2 books. Part 1 and 2 made sense to be split up, but so much happens in each despite that the book is only 400 pages. But at the same time it doesn’t feel like much happened. The FMC is a thief and goes on 2 major missions in Part 1, both said to be impossible and others who attempted them before died. The FMC however manages them in about 50 pages. This doesn’t make sense, and it skimmed on stuff that was interesting to me. Raiding a tomb is fun to read about, yet it felt so insignificant.
Secondly, the book has “one word title”-syndrome. The word fateless appears too many times on the page in Part 2, which annoyed me a lot.
Also, I found the FMC quite confusing in that she trusted literal strangers and supposed enemies without a single doubt. I love a reluctant allies trope, but they weren’t reluctant; it seemed a lot like found family but it was just too quick considering they are enemies. In that same vein the romance felt rushed. It is YA and only a kiss happens but the buildup was just not there for me.
Overall, I think a book that has potential though the execution felt sloppy. I would say that younger readers or those who may not have read much fantasy may enjoy this more than me!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy*
The book had some flaws, in my opinion, and they made the story not feel fleshed out enough. Firstly, this book is a fast-paced book. So much so that I’d view this book as probably similar to what other series try to cover in 2 books. Part 1 and 2 made sense to be split up, but so much happens in each despite that the book is only 400 pages. But at the same time it doesn’t feel like much happened. The FMC is a thief and goes on 2 major missions in Part 1, both said to be impossible and others who attempted them before died. The FMC however manages them in about 50 pages. This doesn’t make sense, and it skimmed on stuff that was interesting to me. Raiding a tomb is fun to read about, yet it felt so insignificant.
Secondly, the book has “one word title”-syndrome. The word fateless appears too many times on the page in Part 2, which annoyed me a lot.
Also, I found the FMC quite confusing in that she trusted literal strangers and supposed enemies without a single doubt. I love a reluctant allies trope, but they weren’t reluctant; it seemed a lot like found family but it was just too quick considering they are enemies. In that same vein the romance felt rushed. It is YA and only a kiss happens but the buildup was just not there for me.
Overall, I think a book that has potential though the execution felt sloppy. I would say that younger readers or those who may not have read much fantasy may enjoy this more than me!
*Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy*
November 26, 2024
This book was underwhelming, although I appreciated the nod to Assassin’s Creed throughout. I personally didn’t feel any connection to the FMC and felt that the storyline just generally fell flat. It was fast paced but almost too much (a lot of action but simultaneous I felt like not much happened).
I like the overall concept of the book (reminds me a little of Divergent) but I’m not sure what to expect in the remaining books. Unfortunately, for me, this book was just okay.
I like the overall concept of the book (reminds me a little of Divergent) but I’m not sure what to expect in the remaining books. Unfortunately, for me, this book was just okay.
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